Ectodus descampsii

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, Africa. Typical explorer of vast open spaces (shallow sandy zones); groups near the deep sand dozens of meters from the rocks.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Ectodine Cichlid of Tanganyika. Aerodynamic, silvery shape, sharp swimmer's fins (almost reminiscent of Cyprichromis, but closely linked to the bottom). A strong black spot characterizes it on the dorsal fin.

Social Behavior: Extremely gregarious and impetuous (nervous). Tends to be easily spooked. A group of at least 6-8 specimens is required; in the tank a dominant male will settle creating a circular clearing to court.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: "Sandy" colors. Mirrored silver reflections, unmistakable black ocellus on the dorsal. Dominant males ignite pearlescent blue or pink shades on cheeks and flanks. Purely silver/beige females.

Aquarium Setup: Extreme horizontal space (minimum tank of 120-150 cm x 50 depth). Substrate: STRICTLY very fine sand laid on a very high thickness, essential for their behavior. Rocks confined in the corners.

Diet and Feeding: Benthic: incessantly sifts the sand swallowing it and expelling it from the gills to retain micro-crustaceans. In the aquarium provide nauplii, cyclops, frozen brine shrimp and crushed sinking pellets of excellent quality.

Water Quality: Very hard water, pH 8-9 (alkalinity). Sand hygiene is the biggest challenge (nitrates and hydrogen sulfide). Strong oxygenation.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent with Cyprichromis or Paracyprichromis (which inhabit the top). Competes brutally if paired with other large "sandsifters" like Xenotilapia or Callochromis (the latter too aggressive). Avoid rock fish like Tropheus.

Aquarium Reproduction: Maternal mouthbrooders. The male digs a huge nest (crater or dome), dances frantically, and the consenting female lays and swallows the eggs. She will spit out ready fry after 3 weeks in sheltered areas.

Risks and Diseases: Terrible risk of fatal trauma against the glass: if frightened when the lights are turned on, they explode in blind flights (crashing or flaying themselves). Leaving a nocturnal moonlight reduces the incidence of the problem.